This episode is a continuation of my conversation with Julie Waiganjo where she shares the story of how her birth went and how all of that planning and preparing for a VBAC played out in real life for her.

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In this episode I chat with Julie Waiganjo about her recent experience of preparing for a VBAC. She talks about why she wanted to pursue a VBAC, the importance of building the right team, and finding the right place to give birth.

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Show notes:

Part 2: I chat with Naomi's husband to hear about his experiences during the birth of their children.

Connect with me:

Preparing for Childbirth Community information

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

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Show notes:

Part 1: In this Birth Story interview with Naomi, she shares about her experiences with a hospital birth when her first child was born, followed by 2 home births. She is honest about the fears and struggles as well as the joys. She also shares about the difficulties of breastfeeding with her firstborn and how she struggled to find good support to get through that time. Then with her second-born, with some experience under her belt, as well as the good support from her mid-wife she had a much better experience.

Resources Mentioned:

Preparing for Motherhood booklet by Barbara Miller Juliani

Connect with me:

Preparing for Childbirth Community information

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

In this episode we talk about the use of synthetic Oxytocin, also known as Pitocin, including benefits, risks and alternatives. You can find the transcript at preparingforchildbirth.com/pitocin.

Connect with me:

Preparing for Childbirth Community information

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

In this episode we talk about Stripping the Membranes including benefits, risks and alternatives. You can find the transcript at preparingforchildbirth.com/stripping-the-membranes.

Connect with me:

Preparing for Childbirth Community information

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

Esther Kimani and I talk about the proven benefits of having continuous support during labor – particularly the support of a trained doula. We also talk about ways husbands and other support people can prepare to be better support for mama during the vulnerable and transformational time of childbirth.

Connect with Esther:

Search for "Esther the doula" on any social media platform

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

References:

Dekker, R. (2024, December 4). Evidence on: Doulas. Evidence Based Birth®. https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/

Bohren, M. A., Hofmeyr, G. J., Sakala, C., Fukuzawa, R. K., & Cuthbert, A. (2017). Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Library, 2017(8). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd003766.pub6

Bohren, M. A., Berger, B. O., Munthe-Kaas, H., & Tunçalp, Ö. (2019). Perceptions and experiences of labour companionship: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Library, 2019(7). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd012449.pub2

Show notes:

In this episode we talk about the importance of informed decision making, how to do it, and what God's word has to say about it.

Resources:

Triune Decision-Making: How God Guides Tough Choices | Desiring God

The Will of God as a Way of Life by Jerry Sittser

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

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Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

In this episode, we'll take a look at Philippians 4:4-9 and talk about overcoming fear of labor.

Resources:

Printable guide to walk through Philippians 4:4-9

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Show notes:

In this episode we'll talk about Lamaze international's healthy Birth Practice # 5: Avoid giving birth on your back and follow your body's urges to push. We'll discuss the difference in spontaneous and directed pushing, talk about what position is best, and touch on the link between the body and soul when it comes to fears and pushing during labor.

Resources:

Pushing positions

Lamaze Article on Healthy Birth Practice 5

short video put out by Lamaze on HBP5:

• Healthy Birth Practice 5: Avoid giving birth on your back and follow your body's urges to push.

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Show notes:

In this episode we'll talk about six healthy birth practices that promote the safest, healthiest birth possible for both mama and baby. These healthy birth practices come from Lamaze international and sum up years of research.

Resources:

Links to Lamaze articles in multiple languages for each of the Healthy Birth Practices

Click below for short videos put out by Lamaze on each HBP:

• Healthy Birth Practice 1: Let labor begin on its own.
• Healthy Birth Practice 2: Walk, move around and change positions throughout labor.
• Healthy Birth Practice 3: Bring a loved one, friend or doula for continuous support.
• Healthy Birth Practice 4: Avoid interventions that are not medically necessary.
• Healthy Birth Practice 5: Avoid giving birth on your back and follow your body's urges to push.
• Healthy Birth Practice 6: Keep mother and baby together — it's best for mother, baby and breastfeeding.

 Previous podcasts mentioned:

·       Episode 3 – The Story of Childbirth

·       Episode 4 – Thinking about Labor Induction (for more info re: HBP1 & 4)

·       Episode 8 - Benefits of Movement During Labor and Tips on How to Do it                  (for more info re: HBP2)

·       Episode 22- Preparing for Breastfeeding w/ Christine Macharia (for more info re: HBP6)

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Show notes:

In this episode I chat with Tara Dew about her new book, Overflowing Joy, and how the truths she presents from John 15 can apply specifically to expecting and new mamas. Tara is a mom of 4, wife of Jamie Dew, President of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, adjunct professor in the ministry to women program, speaker at women's events and retreats throughout the US and an author. We talk about how God's Pruning, God's Presence and Persevering in love can lead to overflowing joy in a season of life that is "supposed" to be joyful but is often also full of lots of other emotions as well.

Connect with Tara:

Facebook

Overflowingjoybook.com

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Show notes:

In this episode we are reminded from Psalm 139 that it is God who is forming your baby and has designed mama's body to grow and birth a baby. He is the God who sees – both you and your baby and He is present with you no matter what direction your pregnancy or birth takes.

 Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

In this episode I chat with Emily Guyer about preparing for time with the Lord in the often difficult days postpartum. She is a mom of 4, Kids Ministry Director at Treasuring Christ Church and a freelance graphic designer. We talk about some of the reasons time with the Lord might be difficult with a new baby and why it's important to prioritize anyway. She also talks about how that can look different in this season of new motherhood and gives some practical advice to help young mamas.

Resources mentioned:

Glimpses of Grace by Gloria Furman

Treasuring Christ When Your Hands are Full by Gloria Furman

Risen Motherhood podcast

Bible Recap Reading Plan

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Show notes:

In this episode I continue my conversation with Lauren Jones as we talk about preparing your heart for the inevitable stressors on your marriage that come with having a new baby. She continues to point us towards God and His Word to prepare and guide your heart and to help you get on the same page with your husband as you both enter this exciting and sometimes scary journey of parenting.

Resources mentioned:

Parenting by Paul David Tripp

Preparing for Fatherhood by Deepak Reju

Preparing for Motherhood by Barbara Miller Juliani

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Show notes

In this episode I sat down to talk with Lauren Jones about preparing your heart to go back to work after having a baby but we talked about so much more! Lauren shares much wisdom for any new mama in the postpartum time. Suffering from sleep deprivation? Struggling with mom guilt? Listen in on this gospel filled conversation.

Resources Lauren mentions:

https://www.biblicalcounselingcoalition.org/2023/01/11/helping-moms-with-employment-guilt/

https://www.biblicalcounselingcoalition.org/2017/07/18/distinguishing-between-guilt-and-guilt/

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Show notes

In this episode I talk with Christine Macharia, a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS) & Registered Clinical nutritionist from Abella Health, about when a new mama might need to pump and how to go about getting started. We talk specifically about going back to work and some concerns to look out for with starting to pump too soon.

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Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Connect with Christine:

Instagram

Breastfeeding Class registration

Links mentioned:

https://firstdroplets.com/

Show notes

In this episode I talk with Christine Macharia, a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS) &  Registered Clinical nutritionist from Abella Health, about the benefits of breastfeeding, some of the common struggles, and tips to overcome those struggles.

Connect with me:

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Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Connect with Christine:  Instagram

Breastfeeding Class registration

Links mentioned:

https://firstdroplets.com/

Show notes:

Just a short update on where I've been and what I've been doing since season 2 ended. I also talk about the benefits of childbirth education and preview some of what's coming up this season on the podcast. This is the study I mention:

Mueller, C. G., Webb, P. J., & Morgan, S. (2020). The effects of childbirth education on maternity outcomes and maternal satisfaction. Journal of Perinatal Education, 29(1), 16–22. https://doi.org/10.1891/1058-1243.29.1.16

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Show notes:

In this episode we take a look at Phil 4:10-13 where Paul shares the secret of being content in any and every circumstance.

To go deeper on this topic, check out this series of podcasts on Revive Our Hearts.

              The Quest for Contentment

              The Enemy to your Contentment

              Belief and a Contented Heart

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Show notes:

Planning for post-partum can sometimes get overlooked with all the focus on actually getting baby here. But life does go on and now you have a baby to care for and your body has just been stretched and worked to the max. Maybe you even had major surgery to get that little one here safely. Either way, now you've got some recovery to do yourself along with a new baby to care for. Not to mention what's going on with your emotions, with all those hormones surging around, and going through a major life transition! It's a lot – to say the least. The post-partum period is no joke. But with preparation and good support it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

In this episode, we talk about the first hour after birth; your four main post-partum jobs (eating, drinking, sleeping, and nursing); what to expect with post-partum bleeding; how to avoid isolation; what's normal or not concerning the baby blues; and putting support systems in place to help you navigate this time.

Link to La Leche League International, a good resource for breastfeeding help: https://llli.org/

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Show notes:

In this episode, I talk about preparing for childbirth during the third trimester. In addition to the things I discussed for the second trimester, you'll need to…

·       Get baby's space and things in order

·       Pay attention to baby's pattern of movement (Check out the "Count the Kicks" app)

·       Prenatal visits with a doula if you're hiring one

·       Take childbirth classes! Yay!

·       Prepare your heart (spend time in God's word)

·       Get ready to be away from work

·       Prepare your hospital bag…

·       And more!

Here's an article with more info about what symptoms are normal and what might be concerning: https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Your-Third-Trimester

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Show notes:

In this episode, I talk about pregnancy and infant loss and share my own story. As I mention in the podcast, I'm taking the time to address this difficult topic to help us anchor our trust in our Sovereign, wise and good God and to honor the memories of the many little ones lost. I pray it will also help us to be better friends and support to those in our lives who have experienced this type of loss.

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

In this episode, I talk about preparing for childbirth during the second trimester. Many of the same things from the 1st trimester carry over.

·       Eat well and exercise

·       Continue to evaluate your care provider

·       Get some maternity clothes

·       Consider hiring a doula

·       Nail down childbirth classes

·       Prepare your heart (spend time in God's word)

·       Begin deciding what you need for baby and collecting those things.

Here's an article with more info about what symptoms are normal and what might be concerning:

Lcce, C. T. (2018, December 27). Your second trimester. Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Your-Second-Trimester

For more information on the Facebook pop-up group I'll be hosting in October, check out this link.

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Show notes:

In this episode, I talk about preparing for childbirth during the first trimester. I touch on things like handling emotions, dealing with morning sickness, finding a care provider, nutrition & exercise, as well as a few fun ideas like downloading a pregnancy app and taking baby bump photos. Oh, and don't forget to start looking for a good childbirth class to attend around the beginning of your third trimester.

Find more info on dealing with morning sickness in Episode #7: How to Survive HG & Morning Sickness with Charity Person.

Find more info on choosing a care provider & birthplace in Episode #5: Choosing a Care Provider.

Freebie: Things to think about and do in early pregnancy

Freebie: Journal page

For more information on the Facebook pop-up group I'll be hosting in October, check out this link.

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Show notes:

In this episode, I talk about the importance of preparing both physically and non-physically for childbirth and what I mean in both categories. I also share about what you can expect in my classes and talk about a new Facebook pop-up group I'll be hosting in October. For more information on that check out this link.

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Show notes:

In this episode we take a look at 2 Peter 1:5-9 remembering the gospel promises that Peter has already talked about in previous verses and we'll consider how those truths can and should affect our lives as expectant or young or even older mamas.

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Show notes:

In today's show we talk about the benefits and risks involved in planning a repeat c-section and why trying for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean may be a good alternative.

Links mentioned in this episode:

B.R.A.I.N.

https://vbac.com/ Scroll to the bottom of the page to access the free learning modules.

Connect with me:

Instagram         Facebook         Website         Video Coaching

Resources used to prepare this episode:

Kamel, J. (2021, May 6). Myth: VBACs should never be induced - VBAC Facts®. VBAC Facts®. https://vbacfacts.com/2012/05/27/myth-vbacs-should-never-be-induced/

Lamaze International. (2019, September 23). A Woman's Guide to VBAC. Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/A-Womans-Guide-to-VBAC

Lcce, C. T. (2018, December 19). Birth Planning and VBAC. Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Birth-Planning-and-VBAC

VBAC. (2023, April 9). Home. https://vbac.com/

Show notes:

April is Cesarean Awareness Month. Statistics indicate that cesarean sections account for more than 1 in 5 of all childbirths worldwide. In this episode we talk about reasons you might need a cesarean, ways to reduce preventable c-sections, how to determine which is which, what to do if you do find yourself needing to head to the OR during childbirth and what to expect during the time of recovery.

Links mentioned in this episode:

B.R.A.I.N.

Bwana Ni Mchunganji Wangu

Resources used to prepare this episode:

International Cesarean Awareness Network. (2020, January 14). FAQs about Cesareans - International Cesarean Awareness Network. International Cesarean Awareness Network - Education, Support, & Advocacy for Birth Justice & Healing. https://www.ican-online.org/faqs-about-cesareans/

World Health Organization: WHO. (2021, June 16). Caesarean section rates continue to rise, amid growing inequalities in access. who.int. https://www.who.int/news/item/16-06-2021-caesarean-section-rates-continue-to-rise-amid-growing-inequalities-in-access

Show notes:

Today on the show we dive into 2 Peter 1:3-4 and see again the importance of knowing Christ. In episode 6 we saw in verses 1-2 how peace comes from knowing Jesus. In these next two verses Peter tells us that we can have everything we need for life and godliness through that some relationship.

Show Notes:

Joy Bylsma, a pelvic floor therapist, joins me today on the show to talk about:

•           ways to prepare your pelvic floor muscles for childbirth, including perineal massage
•           positions that can be used in childbirth to work with the pelvic floor muscles
•           ways to care for yourself and things to watch out for postpartum

We mention an exercise called the pelvic rock. Here is a video.

I also like this video that teaches pelvic floor awareness in preparation for pushing during labor.

Show Notes:

Benefits of walking, moving around and changing positions throughout labor:

1.        Helps your uterus work more efficiently.

2.       Allows gravity to help pull baby down and wiggle through the pelvis.

3.      Helps mama feel more confident and in control.

4.      Shortens labor by up to an hour or more.

5.      Reduces the need for an epidural.

6.      Reduces the risk of a cesarean section.

Tips to move during labor:

1.        Labor at home as long as possible. (Listen to episode 4 starting at minute 3:30 to hear me talk about how to know when to go to the hospital.)

2.       Choose a birthplace that encourages movement. (Listen to episode 5 for more information on choosing a care provider and birthplace.)

3.      Plan ahead.

a.      Learn and practice different movements and positions prior to labor. (Check out this article from lamaze.org.)

b.      Plan to have someone with you for continuous support.

c.       Taking a childbirth education class can help you and your support person better prepare and be ready for the birth. (If you don't have local options, check out my personalized third trimester coaching bundle.)

There are still ways you can move, even if you find yourself confined to a bed.

1.        Ask if you can sit on a ball or in a rocking chair.

2.       Get up and go to the bathroom frequently.

3.      Raise the head of the bed so you are in more of an upright position.

4.      Use peanut balls. (Check out this short video or this longer one to see what I'm talking about.)

I used the following resources as I put this podcast together:

Lamaze International. (2021, April 14). Make Sure Movement is Part of Your Labor. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Make-Sure-Movement-is-Part-of-Your-Labor

Lawrence, A., Lewis, L., Hofmeyr, G. J., & Styles, C. (2013). Maternal positions and mobility during first stage labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd003934.pub4

Movement Restrictions. (n.d.). https://www.lamaze.org/natural-birthing

Terreri, C. (2021, May 18). Walking During Labor: When, Why, and Where? Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Walking-During-Labor-When-Why-and-Where

Infographics from lamaze.org:

6 Simple Steps for a Safe and Healthy Birth

We Like to Move It, Move It!

Show Notes:

Charity Person joins me on this episode to talk about Hyperemesis Gravidarum, a pregnancy disease that may cause weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration, and debility due to severe nausea and/or vomiting. Charity experienced HG with all three of her pregnancies and shares what she learned about how to cope with this debilitating condition. We also talk about morning sickness and how some of the coping techniques that helped her with HG can also help women who struggle with any amount of nausea in pregnancy.

For more information check out the following links:

https://www.hyperemesis.org/

https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/morning-sickness-during-pregnancy/

Show notes:

FREE mini-course | Preparing For Childbirth

In this episode, I share a summary & overview of a number of different "natural" induction methods. See the links below for more in-depth information.

EBB 144 - Evidence on Pineapple and Sex for Natural Labor Induction - Evidence Based Birth®

EBB 139 - Evidence on Red Raspberry Leaf Tea for Natural Labor Induction - Evidence Based Birth®

EBB 125 - Evidence on Acupressure, Acupuncture and Breast Stimulation - Evidence Based Birth®

EBB 128 - Inducing Labor with Castor Oil and Dates - Evidence Based Birth®

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

Today's show has a devotional focus – nothing specifically to do with pregnancy other than an aid for you as you seek to care more intentionally for your soul during this special time. I talk about 2 Peter 1:1-2 where we see that faith doesn't come from our own superpowers of believing but from Jesus' righteousness. And I talk about what that word, "righteousness," means. This passage goes on to point us towards the secret of finding peace – which can sometimes seem scarce with a little one on the way or in the house.  It has to do with knowing Jesus and I talk about some creative ways to find time for Him after baby comes and seems to take up all your time. One way I didn't mention, but which is important, is to let Daddy or Grandma or a trusted friend hang out with baby while you spend time with the Lord (& maybe take a shower, too. 😉)

Feel free to contact me with questions or comments at preparingforchildbirth@gmail.com.

Show Notes:

Things to think about when choosing a care provider:

·       What birthplace do you prefer: hospital, in-hospital birth center, free standing birth center, home?

·       Mid-wife led care vs. physician led care

·       What is available in your area?

·       What fits your preferences and needs?

·       What if your options are limited?

Links to articles with questions to ask a potential care provider:

·       https://www.insidermom.com/top-questions-ask-care-provider-birth/

·       https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Newly-Pregnant-Vital-Questions-to-Ask-a-Potential-OB-or-Midwife

·       https://pcnguide.files.wordpress.com/2021/03/questions-birthplaces.pdf

Resources:

Lothian, J., DeVries, C., & Lamaze International. (2010). The Official Lamaze Guide. Amsterdam University Press.

Midwife-led continuity models of care compared with other models of care for women during pregnancy, birth and early parenting. (n.d.). Cochrane. https://www.cochrane.org/CD004667/PREG_midwife-led-continuity-models-care-compared-other-models-care-women-during-pregnancy-birth-and-early

Midwife-led units safest for straightforward births. (2014, December 3). NICE. https://www.nice.org.uk/news/article/midwife-led-units-safest-for-straightforward-births

Simkin, P., Bolding, A., Keppler, A., Durham, J., & Whalley, J. (2010). Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn (4th Edition): The Complete Guide (4th ed.). Meadowbrook.

Souter, V., Nethery, E., Kopas, M. L., Wurz, H., Sitcov, K., & Caughey, A. B. (2019). Comparison of Midwifery and Obstetric Care in Low-Risk Hospital Births. Obstetrics &Amp; Gynecology, 134(5), 1056–1065. https://doi.org/10.1097/aog.0000000000003521

Sutcliffe, K., Caird, J., Kavanagh, J., Rees, R., Oliver, K., Dickson, K., Woodman, J., Barnett-Paige, E., & Thomas, J. (2012). Comparing midwife-led and doctor-led maternity care: a systematic review of reviews. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 68(11), 2376–2386. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2648.2012.05998.x

Ten Tips for Taking Charge of Your Maternity Care. (n.d.). http://www.childbirthconnection.org/maternity-care/ten-tips/

Terreri, C. L. (2018a, December 26). Choosing Your Care Provider - A New Lamaze Infographic Break Down. Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Choosing-Your-Care-Provider-A-New-Lamaze-Infographic-Break-Down

Terreri, C. L. (2018b, December 28). Care Provider Red Flags: Signs You May Not Be Getting the Best Care. Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Care-Provider-Red-Flags-Signs-You-May-Not-Be-Getting-the-Best-Care

Terreri, C. L. (2019, January 3). Finding the Right Health Care Provider and Birth Place. Lamaze International. https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/TitleLink/Finding-the-Right-Health-Care-Provider-and-Birth-Place

Show Notes:

In this show I talk about some of the differences between spontaneous labor and induced labor. We'll talk about some scenarios when labor induction is called for and some gray areas where you'll really need to think to make an informed decision. I also talk about the importance of making informed decisions for your unique circumstances and discuss using the BRAIN acronym to help with that.

List of resources:

FastStats. (n.d.). Births - Method of Delivery. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/delivery.htm

Labor Induction. (n.d.). ACOG. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/labor-induction

Lamaze International. (2009, October 8). Let Labor Begin On Its Own  (1 of 6) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LykV8YCwWIM

Lothian, J., DeVries, C., & Lamaze International. (2010). The Official Lamaze Guide. Amsterdam University Press.

Mozurkewich, E., Chilimigras, J., Koepke, E., Keeton, K., & King, V. (2009). Indications for induction of labour: a best-evidence review. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics &Amp; Gynaecology, 116(5), 626–636. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.02065.x

Robles, B., MD. (2022, March 31). Are You Being Induced? Here's How Long It Takes & What To Expect. Postpartum Trainer, MD. https://postpartumtrainer.com/induce-labor/

Simkin, P., Bolding, A., Keppler, A., Durham, J., & Whalley, J. (2010). Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn (4th Edition): The Complete Guide (4th ed.). Meadowbrook.

Show notes:

In the story of birth, Hormones play an important role in getting things going and keeping them regulated throughout the birthing process:

• Prostaglandins help soften the cervix.
• Oxytocin cranks up the contractions and calls in the endorphins. It also helps with milk let down after baby is born.
• Endorphins act as a natural pain reliever and regulate the contractions.
• Catecholamines are stress hormones that slow labor down early on then give a burst of energy needed to make it through the pushing stage. They also help baby take his first breath and be more alert during the first hour or so after birth.
• Prolactin helps produce milk.

Link to the "balloon video" talking about how contractions work.

Link to an excellent booklet with more information about how supporting your hormones leads to a healthy birth.

I used the following resources as I put this podcast together:

Buckley, S. J. (2015). Executive Summary of Hormonal Physiology of Childbearing: Evidence and Implications for Women, Babies, and Maternity Care. The Journal of Perinatal Education, 24(3), 145–153. https://doi.org/10.1891/1058-1243.24.3.145

Your Amazing Placenta. (n.d.). https://www.lamaze.org/placenta-use

Lothian, J., DeVries, C., & Lamaze International. (2010). The Official Lamaze Guide. Amsterdam University Press.

Simkin, P., Bolding, A., Keppler, A., Durham, J., & Whalley, J. (2010). Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn (4th Edition): The Complete Guide (4th ed.). Meadowbrook.

Show notes

In this episode, I talk about the Gospel which is the good news of Jesus: how he always perfectly obeyed God, so he didn't deserve death. That means when he was falsely accused and killed on a cross, he was able to make a great exchange. He took upon himself in his death the penalty for all the sins of God's followers (past, present, and future) and he gives to those of us who believe his perfect record of obedience which brings reconciliation with God. And because Jesus conquered death and rose to life again, we too can have eternal life with Him. If you'd like to hear the Gospel presented another way, you can check out this video or this one.

Childbirth can be a beautiful picture of the gospel. However, we live in a fallen world and sometimes childbirth results in death. We grieve when this happens but as Christians, we can grieve with hope. In the podcast I share about my own experience of loss through miscarriage.

I wrap up the show with a few more thoughts on pain in childbirth and the importance of preparing.

Next week we'll take a look at God's design in the "story of birth."

Introducing the Preparing for Childbirth podcast where we'll talk about God's amazing design for childbirth, learn how to prepare for the unknown, handle the pain and lean into God's character through it all! In this first episode, I (Jenny) spend some time sharing a bit of my story about how I came to love childbirth. I also share about my own birth experiences and some of the steps that led me to this place of starting a podcast about preparing for childbirth. I hope you'll join me! And make sure to subscribe so you don't miss the coming episodes. :)

In this trailer Jenny tells you what to expect from the Preparing for Childbirth Podcast starting in January 2023. It will be a podcast for anyone expecting a baby but it will be especially geared towards Christian moms. It doesn't matter if you're planning to have an epidural as soon as possible or wanting a hypnobirthing home birth, this podcast will help you prepare for childbirth. Especially with a first baby, you don't know what you don't know. And sometimes fear can be paralyzing keeping you from doing things to prepare for the best experience possible or even if you want to prepare anxiety may prevent you from knowing where to start...

Show notes:

This episode is all about how Dads and others can best support mama during birth.

 Connect with me:

 Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

In this interview with Molly's mom, Caitlan, she shares the story of Molly's birth following an induction which was needed because of Caitlan's high blood pressure. She also talks about why she wanted to avoid an epidural and how that almost didn't happen.

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

We're taking a break and adding no new content this month. I hope you'll go back and listen to any episodes you haven't heard yet. If you want to connect with me feel free to reach out. We'll be back with new episodes in August.

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

Using Your BRAIN series. In this episode we discuss the Benefits, Risks, and Alternatives to epidural use to help you make an informed decision about whether this intervention is right for you.

Resources Mentioned:

Episode 31 – Informed Decision Making & God's Word

Episode 34 – Synthetic Oxytocin/Pitocin

Episode 4 – Thinking About Labor Induction

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.

Show notes:

Part 3: Naomi and I chat about a difficult season of anxiety and anger during her third pregnancy and how God's word helped to ground her and help her prepare for the birth of their baby. 

Find a transcript of today's episode at https://preparingforchildbirth.com/37-naomis-birth-stories-part3

Resources Mentioned:

P.E.A.C.E. acronym from Postpartum Depression: stopping the spiral with His sufficient Word by Shelbi Cullen

Pivot the bad thoughts

Embrace the Truth

Acknowledge God's character

Call out to God

Emphasize the Gospel

Connect with me:

Growing in Confidence & Peace Childbirth Course

If you're local to Nairobi, Kenya, this is the link for you!

Instagram         Facebook         Website        

Submit a Comment, Question, or Topic suggestion HERE.